UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed met with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defence Prince Khalid bin Salman in Abu Dhabi to discuss regional security, bilateral cooperation, and joint Gulf action
ABU DHABI: UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan received Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman in Abu Dhabi on October 18, 2026, as UAE-Saudi security talks focused on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing regional developments.
The discussions highlighted the importance of continued co-ordination between the two Gulf countries, particularly in supporting regional stability, security and peaceful solutions to shared challenges.
What did the UAE President and Saudi Defence Minister discuss?
During the meeting, Sheikh Mohamed and Prince Khalid reviewed the longstanding relationship between the UAE and Saudi Arabia and explored opportunities to strengthen co-operation across different sectors.
According to the UAE President’s official website, both sides exchanged views on developments across the region and discussed efforts aimed at strengthening security, stability and lasting peace.
Prince Khalid also conveyed greetings from Saudi Arabia’s King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Sheikh Mohamed reciprocated with greetings and best wishes to the Saudi leadership.
The meeting was attended by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, alongside Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser, and other senior officials.
Sheikh Mansour holds separate discussions with Saudi minister
In another meeting, Sheikh Mansour and Prince Khalid discussed opportunities to deepen bilateral co-operation and strengthen co-ordination on matters of mutual interest.
The UAE’s official news agency, WAM, reported that the discussions addressed recent regional developments and the importance of supporting efforts to consolidate security and stability.
The UAE-Saudi security talks also emphasised the shared commitment to advancing relations in ways that benefit both countries and their people.
Sheikh Mansour had earlier received the Saudi Defence Minister upon his arrival at Abu Dhabi’s Al Bateen Executive Airport.
Why are these high-level meetings important?
The UAE and Saudi Arabia maintain extensive diplomatic, economic and security relations, making regular consultations important for addressing common regional priorities.
The latest discussions come amid renewed concerns about Middle East security, including developments in Yemen and wider regional tensions.
Both countries have repeatedly highlighted the importance of dialogue, diplomatic engagement and regional co-operation.
These meetings provide another opportunity for senior leaders to exchange assessments, maintain communication and identify areas for continued collaboration.
Impact to expect
The UAE-Saudi security talks could contribute to closer diplomatic co-ordination and continued engagement on regional security challenges. Strong communication between the two countries may also support wider Gulf stability, business confidence and long-term economic co-operation, although the discussions did not announce specific new agreements.
